Compare Top 5 Posture Correctors
More Accessories to Try
Courtesy of Branch
Branch Adjustable Laptop Stand for $65: If you work at a desk, a simple change is to set it up to be as ergonomic as possible. This laptop stand from Branch is our favorite. It's easily adjustable in height and angle, and super sturdy. If you can also add a monitor with a separate keyboard and mouse, you can be even more comfortable sitting upright. If you have a bigger budget, consider a standing desk and a great desk chair—we've tested several in our Best Home Office Gear guide.
Gaiam Yoga Strap for $10: If you already own a long yoga strap, you can easily make your own shoulder strap posture brace for temporary use—a yoga teacher recommended this to me for use during a class. Everyday Yoga also sells some affordable options, but all of them work basically the same. According to yoga teacher Kathryn Budig: Wrap the strap around your back, right around the base of your shoulder blade or bra line, and pull the excess out evenly in front of you. Bring each end over your shoulders and crisscross them behind you, making an X shape on your back. Bring the straps around to the front, pulling your shoulders back, and buckle it in the front. The length of the strap you'll need depends on your body, including shoulder and chest size, but we recommend at least 10 feet. Anything smaller will likely be more painful than helpful.
Prana Breathing and Posture Wearable for $499: Prana is a wearable device that connects to your iPhone (the app is iOS-only for now) and gently buzzes when you slouch. It's similar to the Upright Go, with the bonus of breathwork training. We breathe without much thought all day long, but taking the time to focus on intentional breaths can reduce stress, ease anxiety, and even help lower your resting blood pressure. A slim retractable belt allows you to place the Prana wherever you'd like: upper or lower back, upper arm, belly, or chest. In Tracking Mode, the wearable monitors your breathing and posture and only offers vibrational cues when it falters. Training Mode is a thoughtful feature that guides you through breathing exercises through haptic or gamified training if you're more of a visual learner. Prana is useful for those who stick with it, but it's one of the pricier gadgets, and the cost has only gone up since we first tested it.
Final Tips and Advice
Try yoga and other exercises. A sedentary lifestyle is a one-way ticket to bad posture. Yoga, in particular, has been touted as a means to better posture. When I’m consistent with my practice, I notice I sit and stand taller outside of the studio, almost instinctively. If you’re not into yoga, core-strengthening exercises like planks and chest presses are also an option. Alternatively, just incorporating morning stretches into your routine will work wonders.
Seek a medical professional. A doctor, physical therapist, or chiropractor can help you find a corrector that supports your body’s problem areas‚ or steer you toward an alternative solution that does. Also, if you have severe neck or lower back pain, kyphosis, or scoliosis, always consult a health-care professional before trying any at-home remedies.
Frequently Asked Questions What is good posture? AccordionItemContainerButton LargeChevron Your spine naturally has three curves: at your neck (cervical spine), mid-back (thoracic spine), and lower back (lumbar spine). Proper alignment shouldn't add extra curvature to any of these sections. Here are some general guidelines: Your head should be above your shoulders, and the top of your shoulders should be above your hips. If you're standing, keep your feet hip-distance apart. Most of your weight should be on the balls of your feet.
... continue reading